Designed by long-time employee Fritz Feller, the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit was unveiled in 1980 as a replacement for the outgoing Silver Shadow. Carrying over the Silver Shadow’s 6.75 litre V-8 and three-speed automatic transmission, the Silver Spirit was designed with a premium on smooth ride quality, featuring a hydro-pneumatic self-levelling suspension and gas-charged shock absorbers.

Thirteen years later a third generation of the Silver Spirit was introduced with subtle improvements, including a redesigned intake manifold and cylinder heads for a boost in power, and the addition of dual airbags and individually adjustable rear seats. Along the way, Rolls-Royce had begun to explore the stretch limousine market, starting in 1982 with a touring-limousine version of the Silver Spur, the long-wheelbase variant of the Silver Spirit. Because this represented a very narrow segment of overall production, the decision was made to outsource body construction to Robert Jankel’s coachbuilding firm in Weybridge, Surrey, which has since evolved into one of the world’s foremost providers of bespoke armoured limousines.

The Jankel Group converted long-wheelbase Silver Spur examples into full-blown limousines that were available in 4 and 6-door configurations. These rare cars were completed with custom-appointed interiors, often including an interior privacy window, mini-bar, and entertainment system. As the Jankel Group continued to build limousine versions of the Silver Spur, the coachbuilder also received a handful of commissions to convert Silver Spirit examples. These touring limousines were the ultimate expression in Rolls-Royce luxury, offering rarity and bespoke amenities for up to six rear-seated passengers.

According to its service booklet, this 6-door Silver Spirit III touring limousine was delivered in April 1995 to H.R. Owen, the respected dealer based in London. Finished in black paint over an interior of luxurious St. James red hide, the Rolls-Royce was equipped with electronically adjustable seats, a sunroof, and extendable tray tables. The limousine was purchased new by the consignor’s family, and though it was later re-registered under a different company name the car has remained in the family’s care through its entire life, accounting for 26 years of single family ownership.

The Rolls-Royce is currently displaying 21,653 miles, and is accompanied by owner’s manuals. This well-maintained Silver Spirit III—that is said to have been cared for by Rolls-Royce main dealers and specialists—would make a nice addition to any marque focused collection, exemplifying the height of luxury that Rolls-Royce achieved in the late 20th century.